When you do decide on a camera, check the prices in other outlets too. I don't know about "The Source" in your city, but they are usually the most expensive place to buy anything here.The Coolpix L 810 has a so-so review by the pros, but from what I could see it offers a decent camera for the use you mentioned.. That long zoom could come in handy for you; and I think the camera would make a good one for you .. It is bulkier than some comparable ones, the uses of 4 AA batteries is responsible for part of that bulk. I do like the use of rechargeable AA's over proprietary lithium batteries though.. They are inexpensive to buy, easy to recharge, and available anywhere. In a pinch you can use brand new alkalines for a few shots , but they are no good for regular use. Alkalines will show discharged in the camera after only a few shots , when actually they have almost full capacity left .. They are not capable of delivering the full voltage and current rating over their life that Nimh rechargeable batteries do.

Check out other similar cameras before settling on that one , and do do a price comparison between stores before buying at "The Source"

Dave, I checked out a few other stores and was amazed at the price differences. Thank you for the information about batteries. I didn't know different types of batteries would make a difference. Now I know, thanks to you. You da best ! : )

Excellent idea about price-matching. I will remember that. Thank you Bluewillow.

Years ago, I had an old manual SLR camera and I loved it. I even took a course on how to use it. An SLR camera is what I want, but I am open to suggestions since technology has come a long way.

After looking around, I think I am going to take my time buying a camera. I want a good one so maybe if I save some more money, I can get exactly what I want. It seems there is nothing in my price range right now that gives me what I want.

*sigh*

"Those who dwell among the beauties and mysteries of the earthare never alone or weary of life" ~ Rachel Carson

After looking around, I think I am going to take my time buying a camera. I want a good one so maybe if I save some more money, I can get exactly what I want. It seems there is nothing in my price range right now that gives me what I want.

*sigh*

If you buy a camera with interchangeable lenses but never buy or use other than the kit lens you are wasting your money. That is why I recommend a bridge camera to the average consumer who wants more than a simple point & shoot.

Canon sets the regular price and sales prices on their cameras.. of course it is only "suggested " prices .. but all Canon authorized dealers use the "suggested " prices .. There will be regular deals on the Canon line through the holidays up to and including Boxing Day . No need to hurry to buy on a "Black Friday" deal.

Unless you plan to purchase additional lenses for a dSLR I recommend a bridge camera/super zoom that provides a single lens that goes from wide angle to telephoto. These cameras are great value for money for the average consumer.

I think you'll enjoy your new camera. There are often good deals on accessory lenses come up for it occasionally .. Most of the new ones have some form of image stabilization built in to help eliminate some of the shakes, but even the older models work well at moderate shutter speeds, especially if the camera is tripod mounted or otherwise stabilized.Enjoy your camera , and have fun reading that manual .